The stakes are huge - for both teams - but Bruce said that he would rather Blues be facing such a test of nerve and ability than not.

"I would be lying if I said everyone was calm," he admitted. "But this is what it's like when you're in the thick of it, when the prize is go great.

"The tension, the excitement, the drama of our last two games at Leicester and Wolves was unbearable.

"Tomorrow, I'm sure, there's going to be moments too. But this is what happens when you are in the position we are in and it's up to us to grasp the opportunity we have got before us, look forward to it and embrace the challenge.

"I would rather have a game like tomorrow's with everything to play for than not."

Simply out, Blues must win and then anything other than a victory for Derby County at Crystal Palace on Sunday would guarantee promotion.

Should Sunderland suffer a surprise defeat at home to Burnley tonight, then Bruce's side could clinch an automatic spot tomorrow by seeing off the Owls.

Play-off chasing Sheffield, though, are the division's form team. They are unbeaten in 11 games, having won the last five.

There is an argument, backed up by statistics, that Blues raise themselves against such opponents, in such scenarios.

They have the best record against top-half sides this season and have often tended to face teams in purple patches, like Coventry City, Derby County, Stoke City and Burnley earlier in the season in 'must win' games.

It is against the strugglers that Blues struggle, and Sheffield's 'all or nothing' approach, due to their circumstances, means they won't just park the bus in front of goal.

Bruce said: "We have had to deal with pressure all season, from day one.

"It's been difficult at times but no-one can deny that the players roll up their sleeves and have a right good go, especially when they've been written off. They dig a little deeper, they show great durability and now, with what's ahead, I detect there is a huge determination to get the job done."

"Sheffield have got to come and win the match," Bruce added. "And we couldn't have picked a tougher game. We know we will have to play very well."

"We have got to be prepared for it to go to the wire," he said. "I've said that for weeks, it wouldn't surprise me. "We haven't done anything yet. The focus is on the two games left, not just the one tomorrow."

St Andrew's is sold out and Bruce said fans could play their part.

"When they're behind us like they can be, it's a massive lift for the players. And I can promise the supporters that they will give them their all."